Cody Gakpo reflected on a "very tough" summer marked by personal tragedy and the collapse of a transfer to Manchester City, with Liverpool ultimately refusing to sell their forward despite initially agreeing to the move. The Dutch international's difficult period came after he and his partner announced that their second son had died during pregnancy in June. His ability to move past the disappointment and maintain focus on football has underscored his importance to Liverpool, particularly as the club looks to improve after a disappointing previous season.

In August, Manchester City made an £80 million bid for Gakpo, and negotiations progressed with Liverpool willing to let him leave until they had a change of heart. Since the transfer fell through, Gakpo has made an impressive contribution to Liverpool's campaign, scoring in the opening-weekend draw against Newcastle and in their Carabao Cup victory over Spurs, whilst also recording five assists. His resilience has been noted by teammates, with captain Virgil van Dijk publicly endorsing the decision to keep him at Anfield, describing it as "a no-brainer" for the club.